Pot Swedish meatballs have always been my go-to comfort food, especially on a busy weeknight. There’s something incredibly satisfying about those tender, savory meatballs swimming in a rich, creamy gravy. Now, thanks to my trusty Instant Pot, making these easy Swedish meatballs is quicker and more hands-off than ever before. You get all the deliciousness of classic Swedish meatballs in gravy without the fuss. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Pot Swedish Meatballs Recipe
Get ready to discover your new favorite weeknight meal! This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:
- Lightning-Fast Prep: You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up these meatballs and their delicious sauce.
- Instant Pot Magic: Minimal cleanup is a huge plus – everything cooks right in one pot!
- Rich & Creamy Sauce: The velvety gravy is truly irresistible, making these the creamy Swedish meatballs you’ve been dreaming of.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Everyone, from kids to adults, adores the classic, comforting taste.
- Make-Ahead Marvel: These meatballs are perfect for meal prep; you can make them the day before.
- Truly Homemade: Enjoy the satisfaction of making delicious homemade Swedish meatballs from scratch.
- Utterly Simple: This is a wonderfully simple Swedish meatballs recipe that even beginner cooks can master.
- Perfect for Dinner: They make a fantastic and hearty main course for any evening.
Authentic Swedish Meatballs Ingredients
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making truly authentic Swedish meatballs. This recipe is designed to give you that wonderful, classic flavor reminiscent of traditional Swedish meatballs. Making these homemade Swedish meatballs from scratch is surprisingly straightforward and so rewarding. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef – a good base for savory flavor
- 1 pound ground pork – adds richness and tenderness
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion – for subtle sweetness and moisture
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – these act as a binder, helping our meatballs hold their shape
- 1/4 cup milk – keeps the meatballs moist and tender
- 1 large egg – another essential binder for the meat mixture
- 1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for a touch of spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – this is the secret ingredient that gives Swedish meatballs their distinctive warm flavor
- 2 tablespoons butter – for sautéing the meatballs and starting the gravy
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – to thicken our creamy sauce
- 2 cups beef broth – the savory liquid base for the gravy
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luxurious, creamy texture
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds depth and umami to the sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – for a complex savory note
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard – a little tang to balance the richness
- Fresh parsley, for garnish – for a pop of color and freshness
How to Make Pot Swedish Meatballs in the Instant Pot
Creating these delicious easy Swedish meatballs is a breeze with the Instant Pot. Forget spending hours on the stovetop; this method streamlines the process beautifully. You’ll be amazed how simple it is to make Swedish meatballs from scratch in just minutes, resulting in tender meatballs enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that’s perfect for dinner.
Meatball Preparation
First, let’s get those meatballs ready. In a large bowl, combine the 1 pound ground beef, 1 pound ground pork, 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and that crucial pinch of 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg. Gently mix everything with your hands until it’s just combined. Overmixing can make them tough, so be gentle! Then, roll the mixture into uniform, 1-inch meatballs.
Gravy Mixture
While your meatballs are ready to go, let’s whip up the luscious gravy. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour with the 2 cups beef broth until smooth. Then, stir in the 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard. This combination creates the wonderfully savory and creamy sauce that makes these meatballs so special. For more delicious dinner ideas, check out our dinner recipes.
Instant Pot Cooking and Release
Now for the magic! Place your formed meatballs directly into the Instant Pot. Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the meatballs. Secure the lid, ensuring the valve is set to the ‘sealing’ position. Cook on high pressure for exactly 10 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release for any remaining steam. Stirring the sauce gently will help it thicken perfectly, ensuring your pot Swedish meatballs are ready to serve. You can learn more about the benefits of pressure cooking from sources like Food Network.
Pro Tips for the Best Swedish meatballs recipe
Want to elevate your game and make truly incredible meatballs? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these tips for amazing results every time!
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; gently combine the ingredients to keep the meatballs tender.
- Ensure your Instant Pot is fully sealed before cooking to achieve the correct pressure.
- Letting the meatballs rest in the sauce for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What’s the secret to perfect Pot Swedish Meatballs?
The real key to perfect authentic Swedish meatballs is in the gentle handling of the meat mixture and the proper pressure release. Overmixing makes them tough, and skipping the natural release can affect their tenderness. I also find a tiny pinch of nutmeg really enhances the classic flavor!
Can I make Swedish meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can totally prepare the meatball mixture and roll them into balls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just add them directly to the Instant Pot when ready to cook! For other make-ahead meal ideas, consider our slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Swedish meatballs?
A common pitfall is dry meatballs. This usually happens from overcooking or using lean meat. My recipe uses a mix of beef and pork, which helps keep them moist. Another mistake is a thin sauce; if yours isn’t thick enough, simply simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes after cooking, or mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in.
Best Ways to Serve Pot Swedish Meatballs
These flavorful meatballs are incredibly versatile and make for a fantastic main course. For a classic and comforting Swedish meatballs for dinner, I love serving them over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or tender egg noodles. The rich, creamy gravy coats everything beautifully! Don’t forget a side of tart Swedish meatballs with lingonberry sauce; the sweetness and tanginess cut through the richness of the meatballs and gravy perfectly. They’re also surprisingly delicious served with a simple side salad and crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce. If you enjoy comforting dishes, you might also like our pumpkin cobbler.
Nutrition Facts for Pot Swedish Meatballs
Here’s a look at the nutritional breakdown per serving of these delicious meatballs. This recipe makes about 6 generous servings, and each one is packed with flavor and satisfying ingredients.
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Pot Swedish Meatballs
One of the best things about these pot Swedish meatballs is how well they store and reheat, making them a fantastic option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Once cooked, let the meatballs and sauce cool completely before storing. I like to transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this deliciousness on hand even longer, they freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months! Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. For more freezing tips, check out our guide on preserving fruit in jars.
When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. These make for such satisfying leftovers, truly living up to their reputation as Swedish meatballs comfort food!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pot Swedish Meatballs
How to make Swedish meatballs without an Instant Pot?
You can absolutely make these pot Swedish meatballs on the stovetop or in a slow cooker! For the stovetop, brown the meatballs in a skillet, then add the gravy ingredients and simmer until cooked through and the sauce thickens. For a slow cooker version, simply place the meatballs and sauce ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours. If you’re looking for a great slow cooker recipe, try our slow cooker garlic butter beef bites and potatoes.
What are Swedish meatballs typically made of?
Traditional Swedish meatballs are typically a mix of ground beef and pork, combined with finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Spices like salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg are essential for that classic flavor. The sauce is usually a creamy mixture made with beef broth, heavy cream, and a touch of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth.
Can I use different kinds of meat for these meatballs?
Yes, you can! While the classic mix of beef and pork is wonderful, feel free to experiment. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used, though they might be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a splash more milk to keep them moist. The key is to ensure they have enough binding agents to hold their shape. For a lighter option, consider our turkey roll-ups.
How do I achieve the perfect Swedish meatballs with cream sauce?
The secret to a perfectly creamy sauce is using good quality heavy cream and ensuring your flour-to-liquid ratio is just right. Whisking the flour into the beef broth first helps prevent lumps. If your sauce isn’t thick enough after cooking, you can always create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Variations of Pot Swedish Meatballs You Can Try
While this Instant Pot recipe is fantastic, I love playing around with variations to keep things interesting! Here are a few ideas to customize your meatballs.
- Gluten-Free Delight: For a gluten-free version of these easy Swedish meatballs, simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture remains wonderfully similar!
- Slow Cooker Success: If you don’t have an Instant Pot, no worries! You can easily make these as Swedish meatballs crock pot recipe. Just brown the meatballs first in a skillet, then add them to your slow cooker along with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1.5-2 hours until the sauce is creamy and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Flavor Boost: Want to add a little extra punch? Try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a touch of smoked paprika to the meatball mixture. You could also add a tablespoon of fresh dill to the sauce for a brighter flavor profile.
- Lighter Option: For a slightly lighter take, you can substitute half of the ground pork with ground turkey. Just be sure to mix gently to maintain tenderness.
Pot Swedish Meatballs: 10 Min Magic
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy easy Instant Pot Swedish meatballs. This recipe makes tender, savory meatballs in a creamy gravy, perfect for a quick and comforting meal. It’s make-ahead friendly and can be frozen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix gently until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs in the Instant Pot.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, beef broth, heavy cream, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the meatballs in the Instant Pot.
- Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Stir the sauce to thicken, if necessary.
- Serve the Swedish meatballs hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- This recipe can be made ahead and reheated.
- Meatballs can be frozen before or after cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Swedish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg